Want to eat healthier food for your teeth? Find out which food will help keep your smile healthy."
When working to maintain your dental health it is important to know how everyday habits can help and harm your teeth. Part of that is knowing which foods you may be eating that promote dental health and those that doing damage. Below you will find five foods that are great for you teeth and five you should certainly limit or perhaps avoid all together.
Good
Cheese
Foods that generate salvia are good for your teeth because they are natural defenders against cavities and bacteria which can cause gum disease. The calcium in cheese puts essential minerals back in your mouth that you may have lost when eating other foods. Cheese also helps control your mouth’s acidity which prevents erosion by lowering the pH levels. Science shows that cheddar, mozzarella and Swiss cheese can help prevent tooth decay and having a bite after a snack food can help re-harden your teeth’s enamel.
Chicken/fish/other meat
Both chicken and fish have a healthy dose of vitamin B3, or niacin. Lacking this vitamin can cause canker sores, and loathsome bad breath. Fish also contains vitamin D which is important because without it you could develop burning mouth syndrome, a condition characterized by a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth and of course a burning sensation.
Nuts
All kinds of nuts are great for your teeth. Among them almonds, cashews, peanuts and walnuts have a host of great benefits that aid your dental health. Chewing cashews is a bit of a task, but that is great for your teeth. All the extra mastication produces extra salvia, neutralizing the streptococcus bacteria, thus fighting cavities. Peanuts and almonds are a good source of calcium which will help nourish your gums among other things, and walnuts contain magnesium, iron, niacin, thiamine, and phosphorus and at least five other essential minerals and vitamins that are necessary for your dental health and an overall healthy body.
Milk
Calcium is essential for strong and heathy bones and teeth so it is essential that you drink your milk. It isn’t just good for calcium because it is also a great source for vitamins D and K2 and your body can absorb those nutrients with ease putting them immediately to work. Milk can also protect against periodontal disease and prevent tooth-loss.
Fruits with high water content
There’s nothing like biting into a juicy apple and hearing that beautiful crispy crunch. Little did you know that crunch is an indication of the health benefits that particular fruit has for your teeth. Apples, pears and other water heavy fruits are great for your teeth because their excess water helps keep the gums and teeth clean and your mouth moist—which is a great defense against bad breath. In fact, apples are such an asset to your dental health that they have been called “nature’s toothbrush.”
Bad
Citrus fruits
The vitamin C in citrus fruits is great because without it you could experience bleeding gums which obviously isn’t good for your teeth. Too much, however, can cause the enamel on your teeth to erode because these fruits are very acidic. It is best to figure out how to eat them in moderation with consideration for both their benefits and their acidity. It is worth it to note that other good sources of vitamin C include broccoli, peppers, and tomatoes.
Sticky candy
Most food on this part of the list you will see that you can have in moderation and your teeth will be fine. Sticky candies oh-the-other-hand are a major NO NO! Lollipops, hard candies, gummies etc. are basically hardened drops of sugar which can cause your teeth to erode. Sticky and hard candies versus something like chocolate (which will is swallowed quickly) will spend more time in your mouth before swallowing it so these candies are especially good to avoid. They can cause cavities and chip teeth, not to mention the damage they do your pre-existing dental work like crowns, fillings and bridges. This isn’t to say never eat candy again, but keep your teeth in mind and be very wise about what you eat and how much.
Starchy foods
Soft starchy food get stuck in between your teeth and left unattended to cause you a world of dental problems. Potato chips, breads, pretzels etc., are best to eat only at meal times and not just to snack on. Bread stuck in your molars will likely sit there until you either brush it free or it breaks down naturally—that’s much too long to wait. The remaining particles turn into simple sugars in the mouth causing cavities and gum disease.
Sports and energy drinks
Aside from the damage these sugary drinks cause your body, they pose a major threat to your dental health. They are high in both sugar and acid and are best to be avoided. They can damage your enamel, cause tooth decay and are harmful to your gums. A recent study in General Dentistry showed that teeth enamel is “damaged after being exposed to sports drinks or energy drinks for just five days.” Considering that many people drink several a day or consume the extra-large versions of these drinks it is best to stay away from them all together. If you must have them, try to sip through a straw to reduce excessive direct contact with your teeth.
Alcohol
One of the main components in maintaining your dental health is making sure that your mouth is hydrated. Alcohol makes it hard to generate saliva which dries out your mouth and can lead to tooth decay. Not to mention that mixed drinks and sweet wines are sugary which promotes the erosion of your teeth’s enamel. Again drinking out of a straw is a good way to lessen the blow when consuming these drinks.
Dr. Allen Jahangiri is a Katy dentist and founder of Noble Smile family and cosmetic dentistry. He has mastered a number of techniques and procedures practiced only by the best and has an extensive knowledge and experience in the dentistry field.
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Adults
Need Braces Too
Children and teens may not be
the only ones needing corrective dental treatments. The adults who experience the same oral
issues may also avail of the bracing treatment. The bracing process of the teeth may generally
be the same with the children’s, but the results of the treatment come later
for the adults. This is because facial
bones among adults are no longer growing and some bracing procedures done to
them may not be enough to solve the problem.
This is the reason why you need to correct your oral problem the soonest
possible time or face additional surgeries later.
Major
Parts of Dental Braces
Your corrective dental braces
are commonly called dental appliances. They have significant parts with
distinct functions for the correction of your teeth alignment.
- Brackets
– these are usually composed of metal, ceramic, composite, or
combinations. There are now
breakthroughs in the composition of brackets which gives its user good comfort.
· You can now choose from various bracket shapes
and colors.
· Gold-plated brackets can now be affixed, as
well.
· New generation brackets are smaller. They can even become invisible as they are
attached at the back of the teeth.
- Arch
Wires – These are wires attached to the brackets that function to move the
teeth to its proper position through constant pressure. These wires are
made flexible so that they can go back to their original shape.
Aiming
For a Confident Smile
To be able to achieve a
confident smile, your teeth should look fantastic. Yet, with visible corrective
braces, you may tend to lose that inner spark of courage. This problem has led
to the innovation of a fresh breakthrough in dental technology with the use of
invisible braces.
They are called as such not
merely because they are found on your teeth. They are still attached to your
teeth, but are conveniently hidden behind them. There is no way you can correct
your teeth position if you will not wear your braces. However, wearing shimmery metal braces could
just affect the way you handle yourself in front of people especially in job
interviews, or simply in dating.
Dentist
Appointment
Malocclusions have always been
a problem you have to deal with sooner.
You should act on what are your available options to correct this dental
problem. Moreover, talk to canberradentist to refer you to a reliable orthodontist and
discuss to you the proper incognito braces
treatment you ought to use.
What Is
Orthodontics?
We are all familiar
with the words dentistry and dentist. However, these are very generic terms and
encompass a variety of branches and divisions under them. It is a common
mistake to consider a dentist as someone who fixes braces and straightens your
teeth. The branch of dentistry that deals with this specific function is
orthodontics. It is a specialization under dentistry, which involves correcting
jaws and teeth that are improperly positioned. Orthodontics typically deals
with the diagnosis of dental irregularities and aids in the prevention of these
dental irregularities causing other facial deformities.
Who Is An
Orthodontist?
People tend to
think that there is no significant difference between an orthodontist and a
dentist. An orthodontist is a trained and qualified specialist who has
completed two years of postdoctoral course after dentistry and is an expert in
fixing malocclusion problems. Simply put, all orthodontists are dentists, but
all dentists are not orthodontists!
Who Needs
Orthodontic Treatment?
It is important to
make a scheduled annual visit to the dentist to ensure that there are no
problems in your dental health. Moreover, only dentists or orthodontists will
be able to tell whether a person needs orthodontic treatment based on clinical exams
and X-rays taken by them during your annual check-up. Typically, people with
the following conditions will be prescribed orthodontic treatment:
Spacing -
when there are
significant gaps between teeth due to some teeth missing or having teeth that
do not fill the mouth.
Crowding -
this is a case
where there is more number of teeth than the ridge can fit in.
Overbite -
when the upper
jaw is too much in front of the lower jaw.
Under bite - when the lower
teeth is positioned too much in front of the upper row.
Cross bite -
this happens
when the upper teeth do not come over the lower teeth while biting.
Open bite -
a space occurs
in the upper surface when biting with the back teeth.
Treatment Options
in Orthodontics
An orthodontist
will make use of several types of both removable and fixed appliances to
correct the above-mentioned irregularities. These appliances are used to apply
pressure on the jaws and teeth, thus causing orthodontic tooth movement. The
fixed instruments used for orthodontic treatments usually include braces, space
maintainers and special fixed appliances to control thumb sucking or even
tongue thrusting. The removable contraptions consist of aligners, palatal
expanders, removable retainers, removable space maintainers, lip and cheek
bumpers, jaw repositioners and headgears. All these appliances are aimed at
applying slow, continuous pressure on your teeth, so that it will ultimately
penetrate down to the root and ligaments and result in efficient and effective
tooth movement. After the completion of the course of treatment, it is
extremely important on the part of the patient to wear retainers for the period
of time that is prescribed by the orthodontist, so as to keep the teeth in its
new position.
Orthodontic
problems can be caused by several factors such as heredity, missing teeth,
mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, habits, malnutrition etc.
Thus, it is quintessential to pay regular visits to the dentist or orthodontist
and ensure that treatment begins at the growing years and hence reduce the
severity of problems!
The Canberra
Orthodonist Supersmile.com.au will help you to know more about dental plates Supersmile. Get that super smile right away.
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The thought of seeing a dentist can be an experience fraught with fears to many people. One thing that is hard to understand is why going for such a simple medical procedure is a dreadful prospect? Many people suffering from dental problems would rather hop up and down in pain when the infection gets worse than visit a dentist. Dental treatments are not a death sentence even when some form of surgery is involved.
To be honest, the sight of a glittering, new scalpel is not so endearing. Imagining such an instrument slicing through your delicate gums can be both chilling and horrifying. However, the fear and anxiety that you commonly experience before visiting a dentist are often irrational. Take dental implants, for instance, fixing them takes only minor or local operation that does not pose any serious danger.
What are dental implants? Are they similar to fillings or veneers? These and other such questions often bother many people. Well, if you are one of them, here is an explanation of what implants are, and some of the advantages this procedure has over dental crowns and bridges
Dental implants are used to secure a foundation for missing teeth – you see, you don’t have to walk around with a mouth clamped tighter than a vice simply because of the gapping chasm in you mouth. By having special surgical-surgical grade titanium post manufactured to precise specifications inserted into your jaw bone, you can have missing teeth replaced. An implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone beneath the surface of the gum. When the bone and the post are firmly bonded, this forms an anchor for securing your new teeth.
This procedure can be used to replace a single or several missing teeth, and as I have mentioned above, it has several advantages including:
* They have a more natural feel just like your real teeth. No one can tell the difference.
* They also allow you to speak normally and to chew food naturally and easily
* For purely aesthetic reasons, they enhance your appearance so that you mouth does not look like the substance of a horror movie when you open them to speak.
* Since implants completely integrate with your jawbone, they help to keep it healthy and strong
* They are easy to clean ensuring that you always have healthier gums
* A tooth implant does not interfere with the adjoining teeth and so there is no danger of decay since your normal teeth remain intact.
* How about increased confidence while you are chewing, smiling or speaking?
Now you can see why you no longer have to hesitate in case you are a victim of missing teeth or you need dental crowns sydney. Why not learn more about this important corrective procedure from http://www.balmaindentist.com.au/index.php/cosmetic-dentistry/dental-implants.
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When surveyed about dental anxiety, approximately 20 percent of American adults reported some level of fear associated with visiting the dentist. In some cases, this fear is so extreme that only excruciating pain will prompt a visit to the dentist and even then with some hesitation. It's no wonder that a common slogan for dental practices is, "We cater to cowards." There's just something about the reclining chair, overhead lights and metal tools off to the side that just plain freak people out. If you're one of the many who'd rather touch a snake than open wide, here are some coping strategies to get you through your next toothy check-up:
1. Look For The Slogan About Cowards.
Knowing ahead of time your dentist acknowledges that some patients aren't too thrilled about the whole dentist thing helps tremendously to calm nerves about sitting in the dreaded chair. Telling a person not to be afraid of something that clearly terrifies them is counter-productive. Only choose a dentist that readily admits the chair can be a scary place for some individuals. Don't be embarrassed to admit that you are the coward they need to cater to.
2. Ask to set up an interview.
Call the dentist you are thinking about using, and ask to set up an interview with him or her before you schedule a check-up. Getting to know your dentist prior to them looking in your mouth can go a long way in easing your anxiety about the process. If you don't like them during the interview, you certainly won't want them poking around in your mouth. If you do click with this person, you won't be as nervous setting up an appointment to let them have a look-see at your pearly whites.
3. Zone out.
Bring an iPod or MP3 player loaded with your favorite music to drown out the sound of all those shiny, teeth-grinding gadgets. Tell your dentist to tap your arm if he or she needs you, but otherwise to let you get lost in the music. Music is very calming and a welcome distraction when experiencing something unpleasant.
4. Drugs, good ones.
If you truly suffer from anxiety to the point you are neglecting good dental health, ask your dentist to ease your woe by prescribing a mild sedative you can take before sitting in the chair. Some dentists will even use nitrous oxide to completely loosen a patient up and buffer them from the reality of the dental work being done. Many patients report a total lack of fear using this method and now have a healthy appreciation for sedation dentistry.
Good dental health is paramount to an overall healthy body. Many diseases and problems start inside the mouth and can be quickly taken care of. Don't let your fear of the dentist keep you from seeking the proper care of your teeth and gums. Regardless of how scary it may be to sit in that chair with a stranger peering into your mouth, your teeth, and your health, are worth it.
Ed Travis is an independent blogger situated in Ottawa. He was previously terrified of going to the dentist, but after addressing his fears with Ottawa Sedation Dentists, he now feels much more comfortable going regularly to his check-ups. Here, he shares some tips on how he was able to overcome his fear.
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Human teeth are precious structures that serve us well in distinct ways. The most obvious use of our teeth is for cutting and grinding up food in preparation for digestion. Therefore, the health of our teeth is vital to insure that we can glean proper nutrition.
Teeth are also important aesthetic devices that present observers with a particular vibe. Someone with straighter teeth and a whiter smile will receive more positive attention than someone with missing, stained teeth. A perfect smile is coveted, which is why cosmetic dentistry is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures.
Our teeth have a lifespan just as our bodies do, and they begin to decay and wither as we get older, regardless of how clean and healthy we try to keep them. That's why dentures can be very necessary for continued survival as we approach old age. Similarly, elephants would actually live longer if their teeth did. The molars of an elephant constantly replace themselves throughout the animal's life. At around the age of 60, an elephant's molars wear down and can't be replaced again, so they starve to death.
An elephant, unlike a human, is a polyphydont. A polyphydont is an animal that has teeth which regularly regenerate and replace themselves. It's actually unusual for a mammal to have this trait that is primarily relegated to fish. Most mammals are like humans and are diphyodonts, which means that they have two sets of teeth in their lifetime. In this way, human teeth go through a lot of transformations as well.
We're born toothless and squishy, but we begin to erupt our first nubs of enamel at around six months and continue to do so until two years of age. Both our primary and permanent sets of teeth actually begin to form in the womb, developing the essential components necessary for a strong and healthy oral facility.
The primary teeth are a child's only teeth until about six, which is when the introduction of permanent teeth begins. This stage of oral development is known as the "mixed stage", and it ends when all the primary or "deciduous" teeth have fallen out to make way for the rest of the permanent teeth.
The only remaining teeth that may form are commonly known as "wisdom teeth", which are a third set of four molars that usually erupt between the ages of 16 and 25. Wisdom teeth are actually a vestigial aspect of human biology, assumed to once be necessary for the digestion of plant matter in ancient man.
Our jaws have since grown smaller, and the eruption of wisdom teeth often causes problems such as impaction, requiring their removal. As we age, our teeth also become more prone to cavities, root decay and sensitivity. Crowns, implants and dentures may be necessary to facilitate the function of healthy, undamaged teeth.
As we go through our ivory pilgrimage, it's important to practice good oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing is essential, as well as trips to dentist every sixth months if possible. With proper maintenance, our smiles may last as long as we do.
Quincy Marsden is a cosmetic dentist at Queens Plate Dental who aims to improve the aesthetics of an individual's smile through his work.
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The human body may very well be the most abused organic object in the known universe. It is subjected to thousands of chemicals, it is routinely set against extremes of the weather and it is often neglected. The human body takes a beating on a daily basis and it is a marvel of nature and of science that it can remain intact through years of constant harm. Chemicals and the weather are predominantly environmental factors. They are a part of the ecosystem and short of becoming a full-fledged shut-in there is no real way to avoid them. Neglect is another issue and this is the one thing that people can do something about.
Of all the routinely neglected body parts, there is perhaps no bigger victim than the oral region. People make it a point to bathe every day, to eat every day and to sleep every day but not everyone can make it a point to brush their teeth every day. It is a sadly overlooked aspect of the body and more often than not, people only begin to pay attention when the situation is already dire. The decline of oral health is a very serious matter and it also calls for immediate action. Reaching that point however is completely avoidable and all it takes is following a few simple tips about taking care of the teeth.
The first and most well-known way of caring for teeth is by brushing them. A person should brush at least twice a day, being careful to reach into every corner of the mouth. Brushing should take around 2-3 minutes and then the mouth must be rinsed out with water. It is also advisable to change toothbrushes every 3-4 months. Flossing is another essential element of dental care. Whereas brushing gets rid of the plaque that settles on the surface of the tooth, flossing goes into the corners of the teeth. This allows for the removal of plaque and other foreign materials that may have lodged themselves between teeth. This is an important step because it picks up where the toothbrush takes off and if it is bypassed then certain parts of the mouth will remain unclean. An 18-inch strip of floss should do the job for a single session.
Certain types of food can also have an effect on dental health. It would be wise to dine from a varied selection but avoiding too much starch and sugar is also important when it comes to taking care of teeth. The reason for this is that these particular types of food produce the most acids in the oral region. They also tend to stay longer in the mouth, making them even more damaging. The main culinary culprits of tooth decay are candies, crackers and even dried fruits, so avoid consuming too much of them. It should go without saying that regular visits to the dentist are also important. Make it a habit to meet with the dentist at least once every 6 months to make sure that there is nothing wrong with the mouth. Signing up for regular cleanings is also advisable.
One last tip to better take care of the teeth is rinsing with antibacterial mouthwashes. These products reduce the presence of bacteria that can be found in the mouth. A fluoride-based mouthwash is more effective but it is not recommended for younger users. The health of the mouth is easy to maintain. By following a few basic tips, people can preserve the quality of their teeth and the freshness of their breaths. A little personal grooming is a small price to pay in exchange for a set of pearl white teeth.
About the author:
Anthony Frisbee is a dentist assistant for three years now. He currently works for a dental clinic in Huntington Beach. When he was still in college, he was inspired with the way of a dental clinic New York City, Tribeca Smiles. Join him on twitter @AnthonyFrisbee
How To Prepare For A Dental Surgery
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Do You Need Oral Surgery?
Advances in dental treatments and
procedures have blurred the lines between dental specialties. All dentists are
initially trained to practice as general dentists. Many dentists will choose to
pursue specialties that require additional training and education.
Orthodontists and oral surgeons will spend an additional two years in training.
If you find a Provo Dentist cannot complete
certain complex procedures, an oral surgeon will often be called to assist.
Such things as extreme overbite, tumors, and damage from accidents are handled
by oral surgeons.
Preparing for Oral Surgery
In most cases, it will be your normal
dentist referring you to an oral surgeon. You should be counseled on exactly
why surgery is necessary and what outcome is expected. Discuss any concerns you
have and make sure all your questions are answered.
The surgeon will also review the expected
procedure with you. Determine what prescriptions will be necessary and have
them filled before the surgery. Ask about any special post surgery issues the
surgeon might anticipate. The surgeon can also advise on what forms of sedation
are available and advisable in your particular situation. You will want to get
advice on your post surgery diet, so that you can prepare accordingly.
The Night Before Surgery
The surgeon's office will give you specific
instructions to follow the day before surgery. Read them carefully and follow
them precisely. In most cases, you can anticipate having a total fast from
midnight to the time of the surgery. Depending on the type of anesthesia that
will be used, you will be told to refrain from alcohol and smoking for at least
twelve hours before surgery. Make sure to brush and floss before going to your
appointment.
Prepare your personal recovery area. You
will need at least two days to recover and you should prepare your bed or
resting area as you desire. Keep plenty of tissues handy.
The Day of Surgery
Arrange transportation for after the
treatment, you will be unable to drive. Dress comfortably in loose fitting
clothes. There is always the possibility of stains occurring during surgery, so
dress accordingly. Normally, you will be told not to wear jewelry, contact lenses
or makeup to the procedure. You may want to bring along a lip moisturizer for
use after the surgery.
It is important to remain calm and relaxed
before the surgery. Let your surgeon know if you have excess anxiety over the
procedure.
Post Surgery
Depending on your procedure, you will be on
a limited diet for 2 to 7 days. The surgeon will give you specific guidance and
it is important to follow the instructions. One goal will be to prevent a
condition called dry socket. This can be painful and can be avoided by
following the surgeon's guidance.
It can take from 1 to 2 weeks to heal from
treatment for procedures such as wisdom tooth extractions, more for more
complex procedures.
Proper planning will minimize the
discomfort caused by your oral surgery.
